Dhenkanal is the gateway to one of the most ancient forest covers of Orissa which shelters the elephants, tigers and numerous species of birds and beasts. The broad plains of the river Brahmani were the dwelling place of early Homo-sapiens who lived on berries and wild fruits before the advent of rice on these heavily watered expanses. The surrounding Sal forests come ablaze with the changing seasons making this district headquarters town a focal point of trips to beautiful interiors. About 99 km away from Bhubaneswar, it is also famous for the Balbhadra Temple built in 1700 AD.
Places to visitSaptasajya
Located 11 km out of Dhenkanal, Saptasajya is said to act as host to the Pandavas during their Agnyatvas days in these hills. The place, with its beautiful surroundings, is popular with holiday makers. It is also a favorite pilgrimage spot with the temples of Saptarshi and Raghunath reigning supreme during Ramnavami festival.
Kapilas
The loftiest peak of Kapilas range enshrines the temple of Lord Shiva `Chandrasekhar' at a height of about 457 mtrs. -approachable by a flight of 1351 steps and a ghat road. Identified with `Kailas', the legendary abode of Lord Shiva, the hill has several caves, shrines and the ruins of a medieval fort which are regularly visited lay pilgrims. The Deer Park and Science Park are other attractions of the place. It is only 26 km from Dhenkanal town.
Wild Life Tikarpara Sanctuary
The tiny village of Tikarpara (120 km from Dhenkanal and 58 km from Angul) has one of the splendid settings in the world. It offers some of the most exciting visuals of the Satkosia gorge, India's mightiest gorge, into which the turbulent Mahanadi river crashes with amazing ferocity through 22 km of emerald forests, that seem to change their hues with every bend of the river's meandering. Apart from offering gorgeous views from the pinnacles of the surrounding hills, there is an excellent potential for angling, boating and trekking around these parts. The Gharial crocodile population obviously enjoys these exotic environs and has an excellent breeding place in this sanctuary created to protect them.
